48-year-old actor best known for playing Weatherfield mechanic Kevin Webster faces a total of 19 charges relating to alleged sex crimes between 2001 and 2010

Coronation Street actor Michael Le Vell has been charged with a number of sex offences, including child rape.

The 48-year-old actor who plays Kevin Webster in ITV’s flagship soap faces 19 charges relating to offences that are alleged to have taken place between 2001 and 2010.

The charges follow a review by public prosecutors of allegations first made against the actor, real name Michael Turner, in 2011. At the time a decision was taken not to prosecute Le Vell.

Alison Levitt QC, principal legal adviser to the Director of Public Prosecutions today said: "I have very carefully reviewed the evidence in this case and I have concluded that there is sufficient evidence and it is in the public interest to charge Michael Robert Turner with a number of sexual offences.

"I have authorised Greater Manchester Police to charge Mr Turner with 19 offences, including rape of a child.

"Mr Turner has now been charged with criminal offences and has a right to a fair trial."

Le Vell has played garage mechanic Kevin Webster for 30 years in Coronation Street and is one of the longest serving cast members.

He is due to appear at Manchester Magistrates on Wednesday February 27.